Hawaii: the endangered species capital of the world

Hawaii accounts for less than 0.2% of the territory of the United States, but more than 25% of the country's most endangered species are endemic to the archipelago â€" what is worth the title of "endangered species capital of the world".

The preservation of native forests is critical to support these species but, unfortunately, invasive species are a major threat in the region. As Josh Serrano explains in the Unreal blog Hawaii, "not all plants brought by humans are invasive, but those that are tend to grow quickly, very quickly, and produce many seeds, which allow them to invade native forests over a short period of time".

"Native forests ensures the control of erosion," explains Serrano. They also provide habitat for native species, cultural resources, clean air and water. " In other words, the preservation of native forests and the protection of endemic species should be a priority.

See the five endangered species that can only be found in Hawaii (click on the photo to find out the name of the species).

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